Cavezzi, A., Paccasassi, S., & Elio, C. (2013). Lymphedema treatment by means of an electro-medical device based on bioresonance and vacuum technology: Clinical and lymphoscintigraphic assessment. International Angiology, 32, 417–423.

Study Purpose

To assess the efficacy and safety of a medical device based on electric microcurrents and vacuum mechanism on lower limb lymphedema

Intervention Characteristics/Basic Study Process

Ten daily sessions were performed with an electro-sound wave and vacuum medical device. Lymphoscintigraphy was performed before and after treatments, and an independent observer scored the images. Circumference tape measurement and volumetry were also calculated before and after treatment.

Sample Characteristics

  • N = 8  
  • MEAN AGE = 40.5 years
  • MALES: 25%, FEMALES: 75%
  • KEY DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Lower extremity lymphedema

Setting

  • SITE: Single site   
  • SETTING TYPE: Outpatient   
  • LOCATION: Ascoli Piceno, Italy

Phase of Care and Clinical Applications

  • PHASE OF CARE: Not provided

Study Design

  • Observational clinical and instrumental study

Measurement Instruments/Methods

  • Lymphoscintigraphy examination
  • Electro-medical device (EMD),
  • Visual analog score (1–10)
  • Volumetry
  • Microsoft® Excel software

Results

The total limb volumetry decreased from 9,145 cc to 8,714 cc after 10 sessions. There was an 8% reduction in lower limb volumetry. Ankle and midcalf circumference decreased from 27.7 cm to 27.2 cm and 26.2 cm to 25.2 cm, respectively.

Conclusions

The use of a medical device based on bioresonance and vacuum mechanisms appears to be safe and effective at reducing limb volume and lymphoscintigraphy parameters.

Limitations

  • Small sample (< 30)
  • Risk of bias (no blinding)

 

Nursing Implications

This method of limb volume reduction may be effective. However, this was a small study size, and the results of the study require further validation.